Global: Successful first IEC classification test for SoDAR AQ510 Wind Finder

AQ510 Wind Finder is the only SoDAR on the market with a first well-done sensitivity analysis. The classification results are very promising.

AQ System Stockholm AB, cooperation partner of Ammonit Measurement GmbH in the field of remote sensing, successfully performed a first sensitivity analysis for IEC compliance (CD IEC 61400-12-1, Ed. 2, Annex L). DNV GL performed the complex sensitivity analysis against a 103m IEC-compliant met mast. AQ510 Wind Finder achieved the final IEC accuracy class 2-4 at 80 and 100m height. According to DNV GL the classification results are reasonable and broadly within the range of other classification tested remote sensing devices, e.g., LiDAR. So far AQ510 Wind Finder has been the only SoDAR device with a first IEC-compliant classification.

Vincent Camier, Managing Director of Ammonit Measurement GmbH, is very satisfied with the achieved classification: “Ammonit has been focussing on accurate measurement instruments ever since. The measurement accuracy of the AQ510 wind finder has been promising, when we added the SoDAR to our portfolio last year. The IEC classification and a number of verifications confirm our positive decision for the AQ510. However, the SoDAR complements our product portfolio and also the market for wind measurement systems. With the AQ510 we can offer a cost-efficient and reliable option for remote sensing devices.”

The IEC 61400-12-1 is currently under revision with the aim to include guidance for using remote sensing devices in power performance assessments. Annex L of the CD IEC 61400-12-1 (2^nd Ed.) describes in detail that an IEC classification has to be performed before remote sensing devices can be used in wind site assessments. The classification includes testing of the sensitivity of the accuracy of the device to variations in environmental variables. Additionally, AQ System verifies each AQ510 Wind Finder against its 103m IEC-compliant met mast in Fimmerstad, Sweden. The verification tests indicate also the low production tolerance guaranteeing great unit-to-unit conformity.

Prior to the IEC classification, leading wind consultants including BBB Umwelttechnik, DNV GL and Ecofys performed a number of validation tests of the AQ 510 Wind Finder. The results of all validation tests have been excellent and confirmed the measurement accuracy of the SoDAR.